SunRocket offered a low-cost VoIP plan emphasizing no hidden fees and simple features like voicemail and call forwarding. The company stopped service in December 2007. Since then VoIP has matured: improved broadband, standardized protocols (SIP), modern codecs, and cloud-hosted business features make today's services more reliable. When choosing a provider, prioritize emergency calling (E911), number portability, security, and service continuity.
The original offer
SunRocket launched in the mid-2000s with a simple pitch: a low-cost Voice over IP (VoIP) phone service with no hidden fees. Its basic plan advertised around $10 per month for roughly 200 minutes of outbound calling, unlimited incoming calls, and two local phone numbers. The service included standard features such as voicemail, call forwarding and a "find me" style reach-me feature. Customers could add extra local numbers for a small monthly fee.Why SunRocket mattered then
At the time, VoIP promised big savings by routing calls over DSL or cable internet instead of the traditional phone network. For many consumers the appeal was straightforward: lower bills, inexpensive international calls and the ability to keep using a familiar handset. Early VoIP services also emphasized ease-of-use for nontechnical customers.What happened to SunRocket
SunRocket ultimately ceased operations in December 2007 and stopped providing service to customers. The shutdown underscored a key risk of early VoIP: some startups failed to sustain operations, and customers could be left scrambling for replacements. The company itself is defunct and no longer sells service or hardware.How VoIP has changed since then
VoIP is now a mainstream telecommunications option. Network capacity and home broadband quality have improved, codecs and signaling standards (for example SIP and modern audio codecs) deliver clearer audio, and many providers offer robust business-grade plans with service level agreements (SLAs) and emergency calling support (E911). Mobile integration, number porting, and cloud-hosted PBX features are common.At the same time, choices and expectations have changed. Providers range from free or low-cost consumer services to subscription-based business platforms with advanced features (video, team messaging, CRM integrations). Security, quality of service, and compliance (for businesses) are now important selection criteria.
If you remember SunRocket
The core appeal of SunRocket - low-cost calling and internet-based telephony - remains central to VoIP today. But modern buyers should assume: pick established providers, verify number portability and emergency calling support, and ensure your broadband and home network (router, Wi-Fi, QoS settings) can support reliable voice traffic.Bottom line
SunRocket was an early consumer-facing VoIP experiment that demonstrated both the promise and the risk of shifting voice to the internet. Today's VoIP market offers more reliable, feature-rich options, but you should evaluate providers on features, support, and continuity guarantees rather than price alone.FAQs about Rocket Voip
Is SunRocket still in business?
No. SunRocket ceased operations in December 2007 and no longer provides service or hardware.
Were SunRocket customers able to keep their numbers?
When SunRocket shut down, many customers had to move to other providers. Number portability depends on provider policies and local regulations, so outcome varied.
Is VoIP reliable now?
Yes - VoIP reliability has improved significantly thanks to better broadband, modern codecs and standards, and more mature providers. Reliability still depends on your internet connection and network setup.
What core features should I expect from a VoIP service today?
Typical features include voicemail, call forwarding, multiple local numbers, mobile app integration, number porting, and emergency calling (E911). Business plans may add PBX functions, analytics and integrations.
How should I choose a VoIP provider today?
Compare uptime and SLAs, confirm E911 support and number portability, review security and encryption options, and test call quality on your network before committing.